Fences offer privacy, provide security, and increase your home’s curb appeal. When your fence is damaged or destroyed, it can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure if your homeowner’s insurance will cover the costs of repairs. Thankfully, homeowner’s insurance covers certain types of damage.
Fences can be damaged in various ways: wind, hail, falling trees, pests, and even vandalism.
We’ll explain when you can expect your fence damage to be covered, when the cost of repairs will be on you, and how to file a claim.
Common Sources of Fence Damage
Fences can be damaged in various ways—by natural disasters, pests, or the wear and tear of daily use. People, either purposely or unintentionally, can also damage them. Some common sources of damage include:
- Storms
- Fire
- Fallen trees
- Vandalism
- Pests
- Car crashes
- Wear and tear
- Earthquakes and flooding
When Fence Damage is Covered
Storms
Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and other vicious weather damage fences. High winds and heavy rainfall can topple even the sturdiest of fences. Hail and lightning can also cause extreme damage. Most homeowner insurance plans cover damage from all types of storm damage, so your fence should be covered, too.
Fire
It’s important to know if your fence will return from the ashes when wildfires, house fires, and lightning strikes occur. Thankfully, fires are commonly covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Since your fence is a structure on your property, it is protected from fire damage by the “other structures” portion of your plan described below.
Fallen Trees
Falling trees and tree limbs are dangerous for you and your property. But whether your homeowner’s insurance covers a fence damaged by trees comes down to whose tree fell and whose fence was damaged. Homeowner’s insurance will reimburse you for fence repairs or replacement if your tree falls and damages your fence.
If your neighbor’s tree damages your fence due to a windstorm, it should be covered by your policy. However, if the damage is due to your neighbor cutting down trees, you can file a claim against your neighbor’s insurance. Even if your neighbor’s tree falls due to disease, filing a claim with your insurance is best. They will either cover it or try to recover costs from your neighbor.
Vandalism
Homeowners insurance policies typically cover vandalism, so if your fence is defaced, it’ll be as good as new in no time. While it may be time-consuming to file a police report, it’s essential to do this when damage to your property is done with intent rather than by a force of nature. A police report will help with vandalism claims to be approved quickly.
When The Damage is On You
Pests
Pests that commonly damage fences, such as termites, are usually considered preventable maintenance issues and are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. It’s essential to regularly maintain your fence, which includes looking for signs of pest damage. If you don’t make sure your fence is free of pests, you may miss out on payment if your fence is damaged.
Suppose you miss signs of pest damage, and your fence is damaged unrelatedly. In that case, your insurance adjuster may deny the insurance claim if they find signs of pest damage during their inspection.
Wear and Tear
It’s important to remember that homeowners insurance excludes wear and tear. Fences are constantly exposed to the elements; over time, that exposure can cause incremental damage to your fence. If you don’t properly maintain your fence, your fence can begin to deteriorate, shortening its lifespan.
Car Crashes
You don’t typically expect to see a car careen through your fence, but accidents happen, and insurance exists to ensure you’re prepared for anything. Harsh weather conditions, such as snow or rain, can make roads hazardous, and intoxicated drivers can have impaired decision-making abilities behind the wheel.
In most cases, the driver’s auto liability insurance will cover the damage to your fence. Property liability coverage pays for damage the driver is responsible for and is required in every state. You can still file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance. Still, the driver’s liability coverage can help if it doesn’t cover all the damage costs.
Earthquakes and Flooding
Homeowner’s insurance covers damage from everyday weather events such as thunderstorms, but what if the damage comes from a natural disaster? Standard coverage typically excludes earthquakes and flooding, so fences damaged during either event would not be covered. However, some insurance providers offer separate policies for earthquake or flood insurance.
Other Structures Coverage
Chances are, you have some coverage for fence damage through the “other structures” portion of your homeowner’s insurance policy. This provision is intended to cover any detached structure on your property, such as sheds, fences, and detached garages. However, this portion of your policy typically excludes the same perils your homeowner’s insurance does not cover.
How to File a Claim for a Damaged Fence
- Document the Damage
It’s important to document the damage done to your property thoroughly. Your insurance provider will likely want to see photos. Suppose the damage to your fence resulted from criminal activity such as vandalism. In that case, it’s essential to file a police report as well.
- Contact Your Insurer and File a Claim
As soon as you notice the damage, contact your insurer or local agent as quickly as possible. Your insurer will ask you to file a claim with any documentation or photos of the damage.
- Meet With an Insurance Adjuster
After you file a claim, your insurer may have an adjuster visit you. They will inspect the damages and may ask for more information. This is all to provide you with a claims payment estimate. Walk with the adjuster during the inspection to ensure everything is noticed.
- Get Estimates
Get estimates from local contractors. Ensure that they are licensed and insured; depending on the state, this may be required.
- Complete Repairs
Your insurance provider will send you a check for the damages, and you can rest easy knowing your fence is as good as new.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I maintain my fence?
Regularly clean your fence to prevent mold and dirt build-up. Power washers are effective, and metal fences can benefit from rust cleaners. Inspect your fence for damage, tighten loose screws, and replace broken boards. Apply protective coatings such as paint, stains, or sealants every 2-3 years.
Why is my fence leaning?
A leaning fence can be caused by anything from improper installation to weather events such as snow, flooding, wind, or extreme temperature changes. Your fence could also be leaning due to animal or pest damage, rotting wood, or damage to the fence posts. If you’re unsure what the problem is or your fence damage is severe, a fencing professional can help.
What is a durable material I can use for my fence?
One of the most durable fence materials is wrought iron. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and may even last centuries when adequately maintained. Oak, redwood, cedar, and cypress wooden fences can last 20 to 30 years. A pressure-treated pine fence is a good compromise between affordability and durability, as it can last up to 15 years.
When to Hire a Fence Pro
When the unexpected happens to your property, you want to know your wallet is protected. Fences provide privacy and security; a damaged fence can leave you vulnerable. Generally, homeowner’s insurance will cover fence damage through the “other structures” portion of your policy. If an event is considered a covered peril for your home, it is covered for your fence.
When filing a claim, it’s crucial to document the damage extensively. Sometimes, filing a claim can result in a rate increase. Your insurance agent can help you decide if it makes sense to file a claim. When you need to repair or replace your fence, don’t hesitate to contact a fence pro near you to get an estimate and restore it to its original condition.
Main Photo Credit: billdoss / Canva Pro / License
